The Yankees' captain, whose 2012 season ended in sudden, gruesome fashion when he fractured his left ankle during American League Championship Series Game 1, fielded 55 grounders yesterday at the Yankees' minor-league complex in Tampa.

Granted, Jeter stood on the grass in front of the infield dirt. But you've got to start somewhere.

"Everything went well," Jeter, who also hit in a batting cage, told the Associated Press.

Jeter, who underwent surgery a week after sustaining his injury, has repeatedly said he intends to be ready by Opening Day.